11 Aug Build Engagement with these 4 hot Back-to-School Promotional Product Trends
It’s been quite the year of adjustments and we’re seeing a similar trend of changes heading into the fall. Most of us in Ontario are entering Stage 3 of the government’s reintegration strategy and the excitement of getting back to some sort of normal is palpable! We wanted to share how some of our clients are getting creative as they plan for back to school!
1. Virtual Frosh Week
Yes, it is still possible to build excitement for new students and this can be achieved through a virtual frosh week.
We’ve seen so many schools pivot and change to virtual events like virtual athletic banquets and virtual track and field days. Now we’re seeing that same determination to keep the school community connected through virtual frosh weeks.
We’re helping clients by creating fantastic gifts that are shipped through our mailing house directly to each student’s home so they can have a tangible memory to mark the occasion! This works well for a few reasons:
- First, it creates a sense of goodwill and connection to the school’s brand.
- Secondly, the gift literally becomes a tangible reminder of that first encounter with your community.
- Lastly, there’s a great opportunity to engage students on zoom calls and breakout rooms for social media posts holding their favourite campus swag collection up to the camera!
2. Masks and PPE
Schools are preparing for modified days and attendance with customized sanitizing stations as well as masks. Some schools have opted to brand masks with the school logo or mascot and equip all students and staff with three masks per person to allow for washing days. We’re seeing some great spirit from schools opting to create masks in house colours in anticipation of spirit days!
3. Welcome gifts for staff and students
It’s uncertain what the exact format will look like in September, so schools are working with us now to prepare to welcome staff and students virtually! We’re seeing fabulous gift sets selected to commemorate a fresh start. Check out the idea below done by the University of Oregon! Ask our creative team for inspiring and catchy taglines to capture the spirit of your community or perhaps a play on words mirroring your mascot.
4. Virtual Campus Tours and Admissions Gifts
Just like fundraising events can be challenging (yet not impossible) during this time, schools are adjusting and conducting virtual tours for families. In addition to tours, a follow up gift like a thank you note and mascot lapel pin to keep the lines of communication are important. We believe that, especially during these times, the admission gift should have a huge wow factor!
Take it one step further and have a note from a current student inserted inside the package welcoming the new student to the community. Set them up on a zoom call after they’ve received their welcome gift to go through any questions or concerns about how the coming year will pan out.
How each student feels at the very beginning of the relationship is critical. Don’t worry about how expensive an item is – creativity and care is more important. Reach out to us for ideas ranging from $5- $250 for fantastic welcome kit ideas!
Regardless of the approach your school is taking to adapt to our current norm, the theme is one of connection. Each school we speak with expresses a deep concern for and importance in keeping a strong sense of community and support.
Like many remote workers, this period can be isolating and so taking proactive measures to really engage is critically important. It’s an exciting time and the countdown is on! How will you make your school community feel engaged? Let us know your ideas, thoughts and suggestions below!
Author of this post:
No Comments